When it comes to complex construction and renovation, the first step is often the most critical: clearing the way. Selective concrete removal is a precise science that requires a balance of heavy-duty power and surgical accuracy. As industry leaders since 1957, Penhall Company has mastered this balance, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment—from diamond-tipped saws to robotic demolition—to ensure structural integrity remains intact while unwanted materials are cleared safely and efficiently.
Whether working at 8,000 feet in the air or inside a high-tech pharmaceutical lab, Penhall’s projects showcase how expert concrete removal keeps the nation’s infrastructure moving. Here is a look at six recent projects that highlight the versatility and precision of the Penhall team.
1. High-Altitude Concrete Removal at Palisades Ski Resort
At the iconic Palisades Ski Resort, "extreme" isn't just for the skiers—it applies to the construction, too. Working at high altitudes presents unique logistical challenges, including thin air and unpredictable mountain weather. Penhall was tasked with selective concrete removal to facilitate resort upgrades. By utilizing specialized equipment suited for the terrain, they ensured the project remained on schedule for the upcoming season, demonstrating their ability to operate in even the most rugged environments.
2. Precision Wall Sawing at Capitol Park Hotel
Transforming a historic landmark like the Capitol Park Hotel requires a delicate touch. To assist in the building's adaptive reuse, Penhall utilized precision wall sawing to create new openings and structural modifications. Because the hotel is located in a dense urban area, the team focused on vibration control and noise mitigation, ensuring that the historic facade remained protected while the interior was modernized for its next chapter.
3. Precision Trench Cutting at Gemini Bio
In the sterile environment of a pharmaceutical facility like Gemini Bio, there is zero room for error. Penhall was contracted to cut and remove 100 linear feet of a 2-foot-wide trench for new piping. Despite a change in the project scope that required deeper excavation, the team adapted quickly—utilizing flat sawing and expert excavation to complete the work ahead of schedule. Their clean worksite protocols ensured that the sensitive facility operations were never compromised.
4. Tenant Improvement at PG&E Rocklin
For the PG&E Rocklin facility, Penhall provided essential concrete cutting and removal services as part of a major tenant improvement project. This job required a high degree of coordination with other trades to ensure the building’s footprint was ready for new electrical and mechanical installations. By delivering clean, precise cuts and efficient debris removal, Penhall helped pave the way for a more functional and modern workspace for the utility giant.
5. Industrial-Scale Removal at AdvanSix Chemical Plant
Working inside an active chemical plant like AdvanSix requires the highest level of safety certification and precision. Penhall performed concrete cutting and removal within the facility, where navigating around existing infrastructure and hazardous materials is part of the daily routine. The team utilized specialized methods to ensure no sparks or debris interfered with the plant's sensitive chemical processing operations, proving that safety and productivity can go hand-in-hand.
6. Robotic Demolition at Embassy Suites
At the Embassy Suites in Virginia Beach, Penhall faced a structural challenge: removing an overhanging concrete section and girders during active hotel construction. The team employed a combination of core drilling, wall sawing, and wire sawing to separate the sections. To maximize safety in a tight space, they utilized robotic demolition, which allowed for powerful breaking and removal without putting operators in harm's way. The result was a flawless execution that kept the hospitality project on its fast-tracked timeline.
Contact Penhall Company for Concrete Removal
From the peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the strict confines of a chemical plant, these projects prove that no two concrete removal jobs are the same. Each requires a tailored strategy, the right technology, and an unwavering commitment to safety. By partnering with a specialist like Penhall, project managers ensure that their demolition is handled with the precision necessary to make the rest of the build a success.
Ready to start your next project? Explore more concrete removal solutions and see why Penhall remains the go-to partner for North America’s most challenging builds.